House of Flowers: A Winery Renovation that Embraces Sustainability and Elegance

Preserving the Past, Crafting the Future

House of Flowers is an elegant hospitality venue, subtle and well crafted, that preserves the rural vernacular forms while framing the stunning views and gardens. A range of indoor and outdoor wine tasting areas accommodate both small and large gatherings, all oriented to enjoy the gardens and vineyards within an intimate setting. The airy hilltop structure serves as a transition to the spacious gardens and provides sheltered seating and amenity spaces, including an outdoor wood-fired oven.

By preserving components of the existing buildings and landscape, the embodied carbon of the project was greatly reduced. The ceiling height was increased to add volume and light to the interiors. New portions of the project were built using highly-insulated walls and roofs. Large glazed openings, including a skylight, provide daylight to interior spaces. Large roof overhangs and vertical wood screens offer protection from the harsh sun and high-performance glazing minimizes heat gain.

House of Flowers boasts impressive specifications, with a building size of over 15,700 square feet and a property size of 13.5 acres. The design team, led by Principal Architect Mike McCabe and Principal General Contractor Bill Maudru, worked meticulously to bring this vision to life. They were supported by a talented group of architects, interior designers, and landscape architects, including Brooks Walker, Sharon Okada, Maca Huneeus, and Thomas Wolt.

The design of House of Flowers is an experience that reveals itself slowly. Each step is choreographed and builds upon the preceding movement to emphasize contrasts and connections. Visitors are guided through a grove of redwoods before reaching the dark stained exterior of the building, nestled in the shadows. The glowing interiors of bald cypress siding serve as a beacon, drawing visitors inside. As they ascend the dramatic staircase, the gardens and sweeping views across the vineyards are framed and revealed, enticing them further into the landscape.

House of Flowers opened its doors to the public in June 2019, captivating visitors with its blend of sustainability, elegance, and rural charm. This exceptional design was recognized with the Bronze A' Design Award in 2021, a testament to its outstanding creativity and resourcefulness. The team behind House of Flowers has successfully created a space that not only showcases the beauty of its surroundings but also contributes to a better world through its sustainable approach.

Image Credits: Photography by Douglas Friedman